Wichita State University’s College of Education hosted more than 100 students from six Wichita-area high schools on March 10 for Future Educators Day, an event designed to introduce students to careers in teaching and learning.

The event was held in partnership with Wichita Public Schools (USD 259) and brought together prospective educators for a day of interactive learning, mentorship and campus exploration.

Students began the day with welcome remarks from USD 259 Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld and College of Education Dean Jennifer Friend, who shared insights about the importance of preparing the next generation of educators.

Throughout the day, students participated in interactive sessions led by College of Education faculty and facilitated by Bobby Berry, assistant dean for students and experience. Participants rotated through four hands-on learning experiences designed to introduce key elements of teaching and education programs at Wichita State.

Faculty and staff members Robin Folkertz, Aaron Rife, Jennifer Kulp, Sara Leftwich and Daniel Anderson guided students through activities that included practicing reading instruction using elementary literacy strategies, exploring conceptual literacy through 3D learning models, connecting personal passions to career pathways in education and learning about student life at Wichita State through an admissions-focused session.

The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring current Wichita State education majors representing disciplines including STEM, art education, language arts and physical education. Panelists shared their experiences as college students and future teachers, offering insight into their academic journeys and preparation for careers in education.

Future Educators Day provided students with an opportunity to experience what life as a Wichita State education major could look like while connecting with faculty, current students and local education leaders.